Cross-Connection Control

Resources, training, and certification information for backflow prevention assembly testers and public water systems.

Cross-Connection Control (CCC) helps protect drinking water from contamination caused by unwanted connections between a public water system and a potential source of contamination. These connections can allow water to flow backward into the drinking water supply, a condition known as backflow. Tennessee’s Cross-Connection Control Program provides resources, training, and certification information for individuals who test backflow prevention assemblies and for public water systems that manage local cross-connection control programs.

Whether you are new to cross-connection control, seeking backflow prevention assembly tester certification, renewing an existing certification, or administering a CCC program, the resources below can help you understand the requirements and find the appropriate training.

Cross-Connection Control Training Opportunities

This course provides an introduction to backflow prevention and Cross-Connection Control. Participants will learn how backflow occurs and how backflow and cross-connection hazards can be prevented or corrected. The course also includes instruction on testing reduced-pressure backflow prevention assemblies and double-check valve assemblies.

Students may bring a three-valve or five-valve test kit for use during the course. FTC may provide a test kit if needed.

A student study guide will be provided at the beginning of class.

Individuals who successfully complete the written and practical examinations will be issued a Certificate of Competency in Testing and Evaluating Backflow Preventers.

Who should attend?

This course is intended for:

  • Individuals seeking initial backflow prevention assembly tester certification
  • Water system personnel involved in backflow prevention programs
  • Plumbers
  • Employees of industries and institutions
  • Irrigation personnel
  • Fire protection system personnel

Course topics

  • Causes of backflow
  • Proper installation of backflow prevention devices
  • Selecting the appropriate device
  • Recordkeeping
  • Testing reduced-pressure backflow prevention assemblies
  • Testing double-check valve assemblies

Course information

  • Course number: 101
  • Format: In-person
  • Length: 3 days
  • Fee: $335

The information below explains whether this course may be used to fulfill continuing education or operating experience requirements for Tennessee water and wastewater operator certifications. These requirements apply only to individuals who hold or are pursuing a Tennessee water or wastewater operator certification.

Operating Experience

  • Three months for all certifications except Small Water Systems

Continuing education:

  • Six hours for Small Water Systems, Biological Natural Systems, Grade 1 or Grade 2 water, wastewater, collection, and distribution certifications
  • Twelve hours for Grade 3 or Grade 4 water or wastewater certifications

2027 

This course reviews current developments in backflow prevention and Cross-Connection Control. Participants will practice testing reduced-pressure backflow prevention assemblies and double-check valve assemblies while refining their testing techniques.

Students may bring a three-valve or five-valve test kit for use during the course. FTC may provide a test kit if needed.

Individuals who successfully complete the practical examination will have their Certificate of Competency in Testing and Evaluating Backflow Preventers renewed.

Prerequisite

A valid Tennessee Certificate of Competency in Testing and Evaluating Backflow Preventers is required.

Who should attend?

This course is intended for individuals who hold a current Tennessee Certificate of Competency in Testing and Evaluating Backflow Preventers and need to renew their certification.

Tennessee backflow prevention assembly tester certifications must be renewed every three years.

Course topics

  • New equipment approved for use
  • Common problems encountered during backflow assembly testing
  • Refinement of testing techniques
  • Testing reduced-pressure backflow prevention assemblies
  • Testing double-check valve assemblies

Course information

  • Course number: 102
  • Format: In-person
  • Length: 1 day
  • Fee: $170

The information below explains whether this course may be used to fulfill continuing education or operating experience requirements for Tennessee water and wastewater operator certifications. These requirements apply only to individuals who hold or are pursuing a Tennessee water or wastewater operator certification.

Operating Experience

  • N/A

Continuing education:

  • Six hours for all certifications

2026 

2027 

This course teaches participants how to repair backflow prevention assemblies manufactured by various companies. Participants will receive detailed instruction on the maintenance and repair of reduced-pressure principle assemblies and double-check valve assemblies.

Who should attend?

This course is intended primarily for certified backflow prevention assembly testers. It is also open to:

  • Individuals involved in backflow prevention programs
  • Plumbers
  • Employees of industries and institutions
  • Irrigation personnel
  • Fire protection system personnel
  • Others interested in backflow prevention assemblies

Course topics

  • Repairing assemblies ranging from ¾ inch to 10 inches
  • Assembly components and replacement parts
  • Tools needed for repairs
  • Complete device repair
  • Determining when to repair or replace a device
  • Determining which components should be replaced when a device fails

Course information

  • Course number: 103
  • Format: In-person
  • Length: 1 day
  • Fee: $125

The information below explains whether this course may be used to fulfill continuing education or operating experience requirements for Tennessee water and wastewater operator certifications. These requirements apply only to individuals who hold or are pursuing a Tennessee water or wastewater operator certification.

Operating Experience

  • N/A

Continuing education:

  • Six hours for all certifications

2026 

2027 

New Cross-Connection Control Class!

Cross-Connection Control Program Administration

Protecting a public water system goes beyond installing backflow prevention devices—it requires a well-managed, compliant cross-connection control (CCC) program. This new course is designed to help Tennessee public water systems develop, implement, and strengthen local cross-connection control programs that meet TDEC requirements while protecting public health. Participants will gain practical knowledge and resources they can immediately apply to improve their utility's cross-connection control program.

 Throughout this interactive 6-hour course, participants will learn how to interpret Tennessee's cross-connection control regulations, apply plumbing code requirements, conduct hazard assessments, develop corrective actions, maintain program records, and establish effective local enforcement procedures. Hands-on examples and mock survey exercises provide practical experience for implementing and managing a compliant cross-connection control program.

Each participant will receive a printed copy of the TDEC Cross-Connection Control Manual along with templates and resources to assist with implementing or improving a local cross-connection control program.

This course is approved for 6 Continuing Education (CE) hours for Water Treatment and Water Distribution operator certifications.

  • Tennessee cross-connection control regulations and compliance requirements
  • Causes and prevention of backflow
  • Backflow prevention devices and assemblies
  • Plumbing code requirements related to cross-connection control
  • Developing and administering a compliant local CCC program
  • Conducting cross-connection hazard assessments and surveys
  • Documentation, recordkeeping, and corrective actions
  • Local enforcement strategies and program implementation
This course is intended for public water system professionals responsible for implementing or managing local cross-connection control programs, including:
  • Utility managers and supervisors
  • Cross-connection control program administrators
  • Distribution system personnel
  • Regulatory compliance staff
  • Other public water system professionals involved in cross-connection control activities
Be among the first to attend this new course designed specifically for Tennessee public water systems.

Date: December 10
Class Number: 108
Course Length: 6 Hours
Fee: $50

Complete the registration form using the link below to reserve your seat.

Register for Class #108

Gary McLaren

This course will be taught by Gary McLaren of HydroCorp, an experienced cross-connection control professional with extensive expertise in developing and administering cross-connection control programs. Gary has worked with public water systems to implement practical, compliant programs that protect drinking water and meet regulatory requirements. The course combines regulatory guidance with real-world examples and proven implementation strategies.

Learn more about Gary.

How to Register for an FTC Class or Seminar

  1.  Select the course you want to attend.
  2. Review the course description, prerequisites, date, location, and fee.
  3. Complete a separate registration form for each class or seminar.
  4. Submit the registration form and payment using one of the methods below.
  5. Watch for a confirmation email approximately one week before the course begins.

Submit your completed form

By email: 
Fleming.Training@tn.gov

By mail: 

Fleming Training Center
2022 Blanton Dr.
Murfreesboro, TN 37129

Important registration information

  • A separate registration form is required for each class or seminar.
  • No additional late fees are charged.
  • Registration fees are nonrefundable.
  • Most regular classes are held from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Central Time.

TDEC-Approved Backflow Tester Training Providers

The organizations listed below have been approved to provide training related to Tennessee backflow prevention assembly tester certification. Contact the provider directly for course dates, registration information, fees, and availability.

Public Dataviewer for

Backflow Prevention Assembly Testers

TDEC manages a variety of critical work through active databases. To promote greater transparency, accountability, and wider access to public information, the department makes interfaces, called dataviewers, available to the public on our website. Dataviewers reflect overnight updates to our agency’s consolidated state databases. Information in this dynamic database is constantly changing as records are updated daily. Any changes made to the database should be available to the dataviewer the next day.

TDEC has developed dataviewers for the Fleming Training Center to help our customers view active and inactive backflow prevention assembly testers. 

Contact Information

Ben Rodriquez | CCC Program Coordinator
(615) 898-6508
benjamin.rodriquez@tn.gov

General Contact | FTC Registration
(615) 898-8090
Fleming.Training@tn.gov

Location Information

Fleming Training Center
2022 Blanton Dr.
Murfreesboro, TN 37129

Monday - Friday
8:00 AM - 4:30 PM CST

This Page Last Updated: October 12, 2026 at 11:33 AM